Councilwoman Jamita Swearengen was elected to the Memphis City Council in November 2015. Jamita E. Swearengen is an honored, well-respected educator. She is also a social and community Activist, who has dedicated her entire life to serving her church, community, and city.

Jamita is the daughter of the Honorable James E. Swearengen and retired educator Mrs. Hattie Swearengen Tuggle. Jamita has one sister, Jana E. Swearengen Richey.

Not only has she served as a multi-talented Community Activist, she has also been educated and mentored to be a committed champion for all people in the greater Memphis citizenry. From as far back as her years at Memphis Central High School, Ms. Swearengen dedicated her early years to the study of music. Ms. Swearengen is a classically trained musician, who studied violin, piano, cello, and vocal music.

Jamita matriculated from Central High School and completed her B.A. in Natural Science in 1991 at LeMoyne Owen College.

Her heart has always been in serving her community; therefore, a position was taken with Shelby County Schools serving as a classroom educator to her current position as a Behavior Specialist. Ms. Swearengen is dedicated to being a beacon of hope for young people in the 21st century.

She has also been an active participant in the local political process as well as an active member of the Shelby County Democratic Executive Committee.

She is a dedicated and prominent member of Mount Pisgah C.M.E. Church where she serves as the Minister of Music and is active in a multitude of auxiliaries. In addition to a plethora of community organizations, Ms. Swearengen is a very active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.

Councilwoman Swearengen is the chair of the Parks & Neighborhoods Committee and serves on the Memphis Light, Gas & Water, Housing and Community Development, Public Safety & Homeland Security committees. She also serves as the Council liaison to the Convention & Visitors Bureau and MATA.